The land of Iceland, Norwegian Coastal Cruise and a touch of Germany!

[Daver6]

Wow, not sure how I missed this TR! Found it now while searching for Hurtigruten. I hope you don't mind me asking a few questions relating to that?

You mention a few times going for an organised walk in the towns you stopped at. Are those complimentary or is everything on shore an extra?

What was the view out the window in the room like? Ie, worth spending the money to ensure its not an obstructed view?

If you only did either the north or south bound trip, would you feel that you've missed out on something?

Perhaps a silly question, but are the rooms serviced daily?

 

[kermatu]

Wow, not sure how I missed this TR! Found it now while searching for Hurtigruten. I hope you don't mind me asking a few questions relating to that?

You mention a few times going for an organised walk in the towns you stopped at. Are those complimentary or is everything on shore an extra?

What was the view out the window in the room like? Ie, worth spending the money to ensure its not an obstructed view?

If you only did either the north or south bound trip, would you feel that you've missed out on something?

Perhaps a silly question, but are the rooms serviced daily?

Over 10 years ago now but for what it's worth can share my Hurtigruten experience:

1 - Town walks were free but major shore excursions (usually day trips) were extra cost. Things could have changed though.
2 - Porthole view unobstructed in my one case. In summer so was handy for the late nights. But really only useful for ascertaining if there's a good reason to go outside or to the viewing lounges. The answer to that is almost always 'yes'; so out you go. I don't think I'd bother unless you expect to be in the cabin a lot.
3 - I only did northbound. Did regret it a bit as the return journey stops in different places. I returned to Norway with a friend years later (her first visit) and we drove around. Suspect I'd have pushed for Norway as a destination in any event but the fact I only did the half journey was a factor. Obviously those who have done both legs can comment better. But in my view if you have time and resources and may only visit once - do the full trip.
4 - My cabin was serviced every day.

 

[Daver6]

Originally I thought no way to an inside cabin (no window) and no natural light. Given I'm thinking of going in October or so there probably wouldn't be all that much anyway. Saving some money on an inside cabin and spending elsewhere might be a good idea. Also would "force" me to spend less time in the cabin which is probably ideal anyway. </thinking out aloud>

 

[VPS]

I just can't do inside cabins - tried once and I just felt weird so will always pay extra for at least a small porthole

 

[ADLhighflyer]

The trip I had was an experience I'll never forget! Re your questions...

If it was an official excursion organised by the boat, then you had to pay for that. Where stops at ports were long enough (approx 1hr), this was enough to get off the boat yourself to have a quick look around and then get back onboard.

I had the Arctic Superior room on Level 5 of the Polarlys. The view outside was good, however if you get the choice I'd go for one on Level 6. Right outside my window was the main 'walking track' around the ship. I spoke to a few folk from the level above me (same type of cabin) and they commented that they never had to close the curtains once to miss the view! I'd definitely spend the extra for the view - especially if going in the warmer/lighter months of the year. As I was onboard for the full trip, I appreciated having my own room with a view that I could go back to whenever I wanted to relax etc.

The ship was definitely more popular on the north bound trip, which was where the majority of the better shore excusions were (in my opinion anyway). On the southern way, the trip was more relaxed as let people aboard. Rooms were cleaned daily, with a majority of the staff doing multiple roles aboard e.g. cleaner/waiter/bar.

Hope this helps!

 

[Pug1]

Great TR and beautiful photography. Brought back happy memories of our trips to Iceland and Norway, both in summer. However we do like the winter snows having had last Christmas in Canada. Glad you chose to upgrade your cabin, after all it's only money!